Rural Mainstreet Economy Declines for July: More Than 3 of 5 Bankers Report Negatives from Trade Skirmishes
The Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above growth neutral in July for a sixth straight month, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy. This is the first time since the July 2014 survey that the overall index has risen above growth neutral for six straight months.
Overall: The overall index slid to 53.8 from 56.1 in June. The index ranges between 0 and 100 with 50.0 representing growth neutral.
“Surveys over the past several months indicate the Rural Mainstreet economy is solid but with less positive economic growth. However, the negative impacts of recent trade skirmishes have begun to surface with the weakening of already anemic grain prices,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.
Pete Haddeland, CEO of the First National Bank in Mahnomen, Minnesota, said, “Grain prices are at, in some cases, 10-year lows. Not good.”
According to Fritz Kuhlmeier, CEO of Citizens State Bank in Lena, Illinois, “The trade issues/tariffs have been devastating on our local dairy industry when tacked on top of already below cost or breakeven milk prices.”
Farming and ranching: The farmland and ranchland-price index for June rose to a weak 44.7 from June’s 42.7. This is the 56th straight month the index has fallen below growth neutral 50.0.
The July farm equipment-sales index increased to 38.8 from June’s 36.3. This marks the 59th consecutive month the reading has moved below growth neutral 50.0.
Many bankers reported good, or above average rainfall, with crop production off to a good start. Furthermore, in portions of the region, the recreation industry was boosting the economy.
This month bankers were asked, “How many times should the Federal Reserve raise interest rates for the rest of 2018?”
“Almost one-third, or 30 percent of bank CEOs recommended keeping rates at their current level, 45 percent suggested one additional interest rate increase, 20 percent supported two additional rate hikes and 5 percent recommended three more rate increases for 2018,” said Goss.
Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The Nebraska RMI for July climbed to 56.3 from June’s 55.9. The state’s farmland-price index increased to 43.7 from last month’s 42.6. Nebraska’s new-hiring index rose to 56.5 from 55.0 in June. Nebraska's Rural Mainstreet job growth over the last 12 months was 1.1 percent.
Iowa: The July RMI for Iowa climbed to 56.0 from 55.9 in June. Iowa’s farmland-price index for July declined to 42.1 from June’s 42.6. Iowa’s new-hiring index for July fell to 50.1 from June’s 54.8. Iowa’s Rural Mainstreet job growth over the last 12 months was minus-1.0 percent.
Each month, community bank presidents and CEOs in nonurban agriculturally and energy-dependent portions of a 10-state area are surveyed regarding current economic conditions in their communities and their projected economic outlooks six months down the road. Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming are included.
This survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural agriculturally and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) is a unique index covering 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. It gives the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and Bill McQuillan, former chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey in 2005.
2018 NC Road Trip
The annual Nebraska Cattlemen Road Trip brings highlights and topics of interest to you, our members. Come see your dues dollars at work at this informational gathering hosted by NC staff members. Listen as Laura Field discusses the Road Trip.
Topics to Fuel Your Mind:
Environmental Issues Update
State Environmental issues and NC participation in NDEQ permitting process review
ELD and the Transporting Livestock Across America Safely (TLAAS) Act.
Legislative Update
NC and their efforts for tax relief and reform. Nebraska Cattlemen stands ready to work with the Governor’s office for a solution in 2019.
Animal Disease Traceability – Is it time?
Several states have implemented mandatory ID systems for their states. USDA doesn’t have the funds to indemnify producers in big outbreaks. States and producers need to take a bigger role. Trace-outs and testing is expensive for states and producers.
Secure Beef Supply Plan
Continuity of business during a Food and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak. The Secure Beef Supply Plan as well as the Secure Milk Supply Plan, and the Secure Pork Supply plans were developed by the Center for Food Security and Public Health at Iowa State with grant from USDA.
Membership & NC Programs
Help us grow your membership. Your member services team is here to help you with membership recruitment and retention.
Monday, July 23
McCook - Meal at 12:30 pm - Meeting 1:00 pm
Coppermill Steakhouse, 1 Coppermill St.
Sponsored by Cappel Sales, Inc. & Stroup Feedyard
North Platte - Meal at 7:00 pm - Meeting at 7:30 pm
Holiday Inn Express Conference Center, 300 Holiday Frontage Rd
Sponsored by Gifford & Cox, Lincoln County Feedyard, Stockman's Veterinary Clinic & Rocky Mountain Financial Group
Tuesday, July 24
St. Paul - Meal at 12:30 pm - Meeting 1:00 pm
Twin Loups Quality Meats, 805 Howard Ave.
Sponsored by Homestead Bank of St. Paul, New Balance Commodities, Pathway Bank, & Cattlemen’s Nutrition Services
Raymond - Meal at 7:00 pm - Meeting at 7:30 pm
Settje Agri Services & Engineering, 15460 NW 48th
Sponsored by Settje Agri Services & Engineering & Lancaster/Seward Co. Cattlemen
Wednesday, July 25
Tecumseh - Meal at 6:30 pm - Meeting at 7:00 pm
Hartmann Cattle Company, 61878 732 Rd
Sponsored by Farmers Cooperative, Dorchester
RSVP’s are not required for the Road Trip meetings. If you would like to help us with the meal count, you can RSVP. Contact: Bonita 402-450-0223 voice/text.
Nebraska Farm Bureau Announces Additional Agriculture Issue Listening Sessions
The Nebraska Farm Bureau will hold listening sessions across the state in August. The sessions are open to the public and will provide farmers and ranchers with the opportunity to share their thoughts on issues impacting their operations.
“Nebraska Farm Bureau was founded by farmers and ranchers who understood the importance of working together to solve problems that were impacting their livelihoods and their communities. These listening sessions will give farmers and ranchers the chance to talk about issues of concern directly with Nebraska Farm Bureau leadership and staff so we can continue to work together to address issues,” said Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau president.
Listening sessions are scheduled for:
Mon., August 6 – Syracuse
First Bank of Nebraska
320 5th Street
Syracuse, NE 68446
Tues., August 7 – Columbus
Rosendahl Farms Seed and Feed
35884 175th Ave. – Monastery Road
Columbus, NE 68601
Wed., August 8 – North Platte
West Central Research & Extension Center
402 West State Farm Road
North Platte, NE 69101
All listening sessions will begin with a social at 6 p.m. local time, to be followed by a meal and program. Those interested can RSVP by texting NEFB to 52886 or online at www.nefb.org/listeningsessions. RSVPs are appreciated, but walk-ins are welcome.
Williams, Stinner, and Friesen, Designated “Friends of Agriculture” by Nebraska Farm Bureau-PAC
State senators Matt Williams, John Stinner, and Curt Friesen, have received the Nebraska Farm Bureau-PAC’s (NEFB-PAC), “Friend of Agriculture” designation. All four candidates are seeking re-election to represent their respective districts in the Nebraska Legislature.
Matt Williams of Gothenburg is seeking re-election to represent District 36
John Stinner of Scottsbluff is seeking re-election to District 48
Curt Friesen of Henderson is seeking re-election to District 34
“We appreciate what these individuals bring to the table in helping lead our state. All have made positive contributions to the Legislature,” said Mark McHargue of Central City, chairman of NEFB-PAC and first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau.
“We are pleased to count Sen. Williams, Sen. Stinner, and Sen. Friesen, among those receiving our “Friend of Agriculture” designation for the 2018 general election,” said McHargue.
Kolterman Designated “Friend of Agriculture” by Nebraska Farm Bureau-PAC
Mark Kolterman of Seward has been designated a “Friend of Agriculture” by Nebraska Farm Bureau’s political action committee (NEFB-PAC). Kolterman is seeking re-election to represent District 24 in the Nebraska Legislature.
“During Mark’s tenure at the Legislature he has worked on numerous issues to help better the lives of Nebraska farmers and ranchers and represent the interests of his district,” said Mark McHargue of Central City, chairman of NEFB-PAC and first vice president of Nebraska Farm Bureau.
“Mark continues to show a strong desire to address the issue of property taxes and how we fund schools; a priority shared by the Nebraska Farm Bureau and its members,” said McHargue. “We are pleased to offer our support for Sen. Kolterman as he seeks re-election to the District 24 seat and look forward to continuing to work with him in the Legislature,” said McHargue.
Nebraska Farm Bureau-PAC’s “Friend of Agriculture” designation is given to selected candidates for public office based on their commitment to and positions on agricultural issues, qualifications, previous experience, communication abilities, and their ability to represent their district.
NEBRASKA GRAZING CONFERENCE IS AUG. 6-8 IN KEARNEY
Beginning and experienced graziers, land managers, policymakers and those concerned with the utilization and conservation of grazing lands are encouraged to register for the 18th annual Nebraska Grazing Conference Aug. 6-8 at the Kearney Ramada Inn, 301 Second Ave. The conference will highlight information on grazing livestock systems and their impact on lands.
This year's conference features more opportunities for producers to share their insights and experience on a range of topics, including keeping farms in the family, mixed-species grazing, and grazing lands and wildlife.
Daren Redfearn, chair of the conference planning committee, said some of the changes to this year's conference are significant but are based on comments and suggestions from previous conference attendees.
"We hope that these changes provide additional learning and engagement opportunities for conference participants," Redfearn said.
New to this year's conference is a complimentary half-day field tour focused on monitoring. Chartered buses will depart the Ramada Inn for the tour site, where attendees will hear Christine Su, CEO of PastureMap, speak on field applications of pasture and ecological monitoring. Producers utilizing monitoring will also share their experiences.
Ron Hanson, agribusiness professor emeritus at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, will moderate a producer panel on the generational transfer of farms and ranches. Homer Buell of Shovel Dot Ranch will reflect on conference insights and their relevance to producers. The schedule also will allow time for networking and visiting exhibit booths featuring new services and products.
To register, visit https://grassland.unl.edu/2018-ngc. For assistance with registration, call 402-472-8747.
The Nebraska Grazing Conference is hosted by the university's Center for Grassland Studies.
Property values near wind energy projects subject of Center for Rural Affairs fact sheet
Wind energy projects do not negatively impact surrounding property values, according to a fact sheet released this week by the Center for Rural Affairs.
“Wind energy and property values” reviews findings of studies conducted by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory – as well as the Universities of Rhode Island and Connecticut – which analyze factors that influence property values. Author Lu Nelsen provides recommendations for wind project developers, rural communities, and landowners to facilitate a more efficient development process.
“These studies, along with many others, have found no measurable effect on property values from nearby wind farms,” said Nelsen, policy associate at the Center for Rural Affairs. “While it is important for developers to work with communities and landowners to avoid potential issues with new projects, local stakeholders and officials now have a better answer to a concern that is often voiced early in the development process.”
The conclusions were reached by monitoring the sale of more than 50,000 homes spanning 27 counties in nine different states.
The homes were located within 10 miles of wind projects; 1,198 homes were within one mile and 331 were within a half mile.
“The Center for Rural Affairs aims to assist landowners and other stakeholders in developing clean energy projects in an equitable, sustainable way that works best for rural citizens and their communities,” Nelsen said. “This fact sheet will be a good resource for county officials and landowners looking for answers about effects on property values, as well as potential best practices that wind energy developers could adopt when pursuing a project.”
The fact sheet is available at cfra.org/publications/WindEnergyAndPropertyValues.
Your new favorite Harvest Ale Festival is coming on October 13th
The Nebraska Craft Brewers Guild, Nebraska Extension Hop Program and Midwest Hop Producers are thrilled to announce a new and exciting event that promotes community and the hop growing and craft brewing industries. The Harvest Ale Festival will take place on Saturday, October 13th at Midwest Hop Producers in Plattsmouth, Nebraska and will celebrate local hops and local beer with food, beer tastings, fall activities and music.
While we might be drenched in sweat under the summer sun busily preparing for harvest this fall, we can look forward to fall days with a nip in the air, crisp beers with fresh hop aromas, and gatherings with friends as the sun goes down. This unique outdoor festival will feature tastings of fresh hopped and harvest styled brews highlighting local hop and craft brew production in Nebraska, local food trucks, scenic views of the largest hop yard in Nebraska, and an afternoon you won’t forget among friends.
This event will bring people from all over the Midwest together and a portion of the proceeds from the event will be going to support the efforts of the Nebraska Craft Brewers Guild and the Nebraska Hop Program’s research and extension hop yard. Both of these organizations are working hard to better the craft brewing industry in the state!
For more information visit: //www.eventbrite.com/e/first-annual-harvest-ale-festival-tickets-47868222141?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Participating breweries: 5168 Brewing Co., Backswing Brewing Co., Blue Blood Brewing Co., Brickway Brewing Co., Code Beer Co., Empyrean Brewing Co., Farnam House Brewing Co., First Street Brewing Co., Infusion Brewing Co., Keg Creek Brewing Co. (IA), Kinkaider Brewing Co., Kros Strain Brewing Co., Lazy Horse Brewing Co., Lost Way Brewing Co., Lucky Bucket Brewing Co., Nebraska Brewing Co., Pals Brewing Co., Prairie Pride Brewing Co., Scriptown Brewing Co., Soaring Wings Vineyard & Brewing, Thunderhead Brewing Co., Upstream Brewing Co., and Zipline Brewing Co.
Gangwish Elected to National Corn Board
At the National Corn Growers Association’s biannual Corn Congress event, Deb Gangwish was elected to serve on NCGA’s corn board. Deb is a farmer from Shelton, Nebraska, and is a director for the Nebraska Corn Growers Association.
“I am humbled and honored to have been selected to serve in this role,” said Gangwish. “I’m excited to hit the ground running in October and serve corn farmers by working to improve issues such as the RFS, trade and the farm bill. So many of the groups driving and creating policy are unfamiliar with modern agriculture. I look forward to bridging this gap to ensure agriculture is a viable industry for the generations to come.”
On their farm, Deb and her husband grow seed corn, field corn, soybeans, grain sorghum, oats, alfalfa, hay and corn silage. They also background cattle and own a trucking company. Off the farm, Deb is actively involved in agriculture at the state, national and international levels through various organizations and international trade missions.
“Deb brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to NCGA’s corn board,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Corn Growers Association. “She is a driven individual who is passionate about the betterment of agriculture. I look forward to seeing the positive influence she has for our nation’s corn industry.”
Deb will begin her role on NCGA’s corn board on October 1, 2018. The election took place Wednesday, July 18 during the first day of the 2018 Corn Congress in Washington, D.C. The multi-day event is focused on shaping policy for NCGA. Corn farmer delegates from across the country participated in the discussions.
ICGA Members Take Ag Priorities to Washington, D.C. during Corn Congress
Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) farmer-leaders convened in Washington, D.C. this week with other corn farmers from across the country to advocate for key agricultural issues as part of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) Corn Congress meeting. The Iowa delegation, including ICGA directors and grassroots members, visited 125 Congressional offices, many of which represented areas outside the Corn Belt because it is important that all members of Congress understand the importance of American agriculture and the challenges farmers currently face. These Capitol Hill meetings focused on:
- The necessity for a conclusion to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) negotiations and an end to the imposed trade tariffs on corn and corn products
- Support of a fully funded 2018 Farm Bill that will meet farmers priorities with crop insurance and increased funding for the for critical trade promotion and export programs (MAP and FMD)
- Expanding consumer access to higher blends of ethanol by allowing for year-round E15 use and reallocate the gallons lost due to small refinery exemptions
“Trade was a key topic of Corn Congress and it was a key message we took to Capitol Hill,” said Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President Mark Recker, a farmer from Arlington. “We need to find a path forward on trade before we see long-term impacts to farmers and rural America. We are counting on the administration and Congress to reach a resolution on responsible trade policies including seeing NAFTA negotiations through and solidify our relationships with Mexico and Canada.”
Recker also joined other ICGA farmer-leaders in meetings with the Iowa Delegation including Senator Ernst and Senator Grassley where they discussed the need of working with EPA Administrator Wheeler to maintain a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). “We need year-round E15, so we can expand our use of higher blends of ethanol and we urge the EPA to reallocate the gallons of ethanol already lost due to the small refinery exemptions. We appreciate the support of the entire delegation on this issue, but most notably Senators Ernst and Grassley who championed for Iowa farmers during the recent threats to the RFS.”
“We advocated for a fully funded Farm Bill that will help meet farmers priorities with crop insurance and funding for export programs,” said Recker. “The Federal Crop Insurance programs were written in a way to provide a basic level of risk protection to help offset bad economic times and severe weather. We’re seeing its importance again this year as areas in the Midwest struggle with the weather.”
Iowa Corn farmer-leaders on Monday and Tuesday participated in NCGA Action teams to help set the direction of many key programs and activities. In addition to meetings on the Hill, ICGA delegates debated their priorities and approved national policy resolutions.
Iowa Farmer-Leaders Elected to National Corn Growers Association Board
Delegates attending the 2018 National Corn Congress re-elected Bruce Rohwer from O’Brien County to the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) Board for a three-year term. Rohwer will join NCGA Directors Chris Edgington of Mitchell County and Kevin Ross of Pottawatomie County on the Corn Board. Ross will serve as first vice president-elect for Fiscal Year 2019.
"NCGA is unique in that it brings together corn farmers from across the country to create a cohesive, unified voice in dealing with their shared issues," said Rohwer. "I look forward to the opportunity to serve on the Corn Board to offer my views but, more importantly, to assist the board in its efforts to guide NCGA as a positive force for our nation's corn farmers."
Rohwer, of Paullina, Iowa is past chair and president of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and is the Corn Board liaison to the Risk Management Action Team. Rohwer operates a corn and soybean farm, along with his son and daughter, in addition to owning a drainage tillage business. Along with a neighbor, he also owns a sow farrow farrow-to-finish operation.
Bruce places a high priority on maintaining NCGA's role as the leading advocate for the corn industry and bringing stakeholders together to find a strong voice advocating for issues such as trade, ethanol, and livestock exports as well as addressing consumer concerns. Rohwer said that corn farmers have several opportunities to be farmer-advocates:
- before government regulators with a new crop insurance program to help protect farmers;
- for the Farm Bill before Congressional Committees;
- as ambassadors for our crop with international buyers;
- as partners with our fellow farmers in other associations such as the US Grains Council and U.S. Meat Export Federation
“These “opportunities” to affect things from policy to economics, come to us as members of NCGA and it is incumbent upon each of us to do that advocacy for agriculture,” stated Rohwer.
The NCGA Corn Board represents the organization on all matters while directing both policy and supervising day-to-day operations. Board members represent the federation of state organizations, supervise the affairs and activities of NCGA in partnership with the chief executive officer and implement NCGA policy established by the Corn Congress. Members also act as spokesmen for the NCGA and enhance the organization’s public standing on all organizational and policy issues.
Farmers Grow their Soybean Knowledge as ISA Experience Participants
Thirteen farmers from throughout Iowa are broadening their knowledge of the soybean industry and the Iowa Soybean Association as participants in the 2018 Iowa Soybean Association Experience.
The program, launched in 2015, immerses farmers in all facets of the ISA including its services, structure and governance. It also offers them unique perspectives about issues impacting the productivity and profitability of soybean farmers including international trade, market development, production and environmental research and communications.
Participants include:
Schyler Bardole, Churdan
Aimee & Klint Bissell, Bedford
Reed Burres, Humboldt
Katie Hall, Clive
David Hiler, Rockwell City
Julie Kenney, Ankeny
Kevin Krumwiede, Ledyard
Blake Rabe, Ankeny
Jason Russell, Prairieburg
Sam Showalter, Hampton
Brent Swart, Spencer
Jared Wellik, Woden
“The ISA Experience provides a great opportunity for farmer members to learn more about their association and pique their interest for future leadership and involvement,” said ISA President Bill Shipley. “They also serve as an important sounding board for the organization, providing ideas and direction that strengthens our service to members and the industry.”
The farmer from Nodaway said Experience participants are often the first to voice concerns, surface ideas, pose questions and offer valuable insights that benefit ISA staff.
“We’ve had several Experience class members go on to serve as leaders on our board and advisory councils,” Shipley said. “The Experience helps them find their fit with ISA and to understand first-hand how the soybean checkoff is benefitting them and fellow soybean farmers.”
Experience participants met for the first time in March and focused on foreign trade and policy and regulatory concerns. Future meetings will include a biodiesel plant tour, a visit to the Farm Progress Show and participation in next January’s ISA District Advisory Council meeting to be held in Des Moines.
The Experience Class is powered in part by Beck’s Hybrids and REG.
ASA Leaders Share Policy Updates and Discuss the Future of U.S. Soy at USB Meeting
American Soybean Association (ASA) President and Iowa farmer John Heisdorffer and ASA CEO Ryan Findlay provided remarks at the United Soybean Board (USB) meeting this week in Omaha, Neb.
Heisdorffer gave a presentation to the full board and Findlay participated in a panel discussion with USB Chief Executive Officer Polly Ruhland and U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) CEO Jim Sutter, moderated by Timothy Venverloh, USB sustainability strategic director.
Heisdorffer provided an update on ASA’s efforts to educate Congressional leaders and the Administration on the significant impact of the Section 301 tariffs and China’s retaliatory tariffs during an already down farm economy.
He also shared a summary on ASA’s efforts to encourage passage of a farm bill this year; support for maintaining and establishing appropriate annual volume requirements for biodiesel under the RFS; and the importance of biotechnology and the need to work collaboratively with like-minded groups to implement the National Biotech Food Labeling Standard that will exempt products with ingredients derived through plant breeding techniques and that do not contain rDNA protein.
Findlay’s participation in a vibrant panel discussion with Ruhland and Sutter covered a wide range of topics that impact the profit potential of U.S. soybean farmers and the future global market potential for U.S. soy.
The group discussed trade challenges, consumer perceptions of soy, sustainability and many other priority issues and how the three organizations can collaborate to address these opportunities.
Livestock Groups Applaud Proposed Updates to ESA Implementation
Ethan Lane, Executive Director of the Public Lands Council (PLC) and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Federal Lands, today released the following statement in response to the Fish and Wildlife Service's proposed updates to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) implementation regulations:
“We are pleased to see the administration taking such a serious and measured approach to modernizing the regulatory side of the Endangered Species Act. While we are still reviewing the details of these proposed rules, they are focused on some of the most impactful areas of current ESA implementation and could consequently provide tremendous relief to ranchers once finalized. We look forward to working with Secretary Zinke and his team on this effort.”
Farm Bureau Welcomes ESA Regulatory Revisions
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall
“The American Farm Bureau Federation is pleased to see the White House is prioritizing regulatory improvements to the Endangered Species Act. We look forward to reviewing the proposals in greater detail with our members and providing constructive comments to the docket. On their face, the revisions are in line with farmers’ and ranchers’ calls for rules that are clear, encourage voluntary conservation work, increase local involvement and chart a path for real recovery and delisting of species. We applaud the Trump Administration’s regulatory reform efforts and this long-overdue change to the ESA.”
Record Low Veal and Lamb and Mutton Production for June
Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.33 billion pounds in June, down 1 percent from the 4.35 billion pounds produced in June 2017.
Beef production, at 2.30 billion pounds, was 1 percent above the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.88 million head, up 1 percent from June 2017. The average live weight was unchanged from the previous year, at 1,321 pounds.
Veal production totaled 5.8 million pounds, 8 percent below June a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 45,200 head, up 12 percent from June 2017. The average live weight was down 46 pounds from last year, at 223 pounds.
Pork production totaled 2.01 billion pounds, down 2 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 9.61 million head, down 3 percent from June 2017. The average live weight was up 1 pound from the previous year, at 280 pounds.
Lamb and mutton production, at 12.3 million pounds, was down 1 percent from June 2017. Sheep slaughter totaled 178,500 head, 5 percent below last year. The average live weight was 138 pounds, up 6 pounds from June a year ago.
By State (million lbs. -- % June '17)
Nebraska ....: 669.5 97
Iowa ...........: 574.7 99
Kansas ........: 515.8 103
January to June 2018 commercial red meat production was 26.3 billion pounds, up 4 percent from 2017. Accumulated beef production was up 4 percent from last year, veal was down slightly, pork was up 3 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was up 5 percent.
Farmers Press Trump Administration on Biofuels in New Ad from Growth Energy
A new television ad launched today by Growth Energy, the nation’s top ethanol advocate, casts a spotlight on the repeated calls from rural America for pro-biofuel policies from President Trump and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This new ad follows a field hearing in Ypsilanti, Michigan held by the EPA on the topic this week.
“Rural America is hurting, and these communities are counting on President Trump and his administration to uphold his promise to support biofuels,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “The EPA could immediately restore hundreds of millions of bushels of demand to the agricultural market by unleashing more homegrown biofuels. American farmers are ready to compete, and the biofuels produced from their crops will revitalize rural growth, increase American energy security, and provide much-needed relief from rising gasoline prices.”
Slated to air on Fox News, the ad gives voice to many Midwest farmers who have been hardest hit by the ongoing agricultural crisis and attacks on crop-based biofuels. They ask President Trump to ensure that new EPA Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler reverse the demand destruction caused by federal waivers, restore integrity to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), and lift outdated restrictions on the sale of ethanol blends, namely E15 – regulations that President Trump called “unnecessary and ridiculous.”
The new ad is the latest salvo in Growth Energy’s ongoing campaign to expand domestic markets for clean, low-cost biofuels. As part of the effort, elected leaders have joined farm and business champions from across the Midwest to demand that EPA lift regulations that limit the sales of E15 during the summer. Additionally, Growth Energy recently launched an action center to ensure rural America’s voice is heard during the EPA’s open comment period for the proposed biofuel targets for 2019. They also have rallied against anti-ethanol waivers granted to major oil refiners by former EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, who departed shortly after proposing these controversial biofuel targets for 2019. Those targets are now under review by Mr. Wheeler.
“Farmers cannot afford to be locked out of the energy market for another driving season,” added Skor.
USGC Explores Potential Ethanol Demand In Chile And Argentina
Increased global bioethanol use is only a well-constructed policy decision away in markets like Argentina and Chile. The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) traveled to both countries in June to investigate their existing ethanol markets and discover how new or improved ethanol policies could boost demand while opening the door to imports.
“New market development opportunities for ethanol continue to arise in the Western Hemisphere,” said Mike Dwyer, USGC chief economist and lead on ethanol promotion globally. “The Council is discussing with governments and industries how to meet increasing demand for fuel and achieve economic, environmental and human health benefits through the use of blending ethanol into their gasoline supplies.”
After participating in the Ethanol Summit of the Americas in Houston in October 2017 (an event sponsored by the Council and its domestic partners), another South American country, Bolivia, decided to dramatically boost its commitment to bioethanol by starting at E10 in January 2019 and rising to E25 by 2025. The Council decided to visit Argentina and Chile with the hope officials there would see the value of enacting similiar policies but with substantially more gallons involved.
In Chile, inexperience using ethanol is hindering U.S. ethanol export opportunities. Government regulations do allow blending of ethanol into fuel between two and five percent. However, importers and domestic refiners have selected MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) - a substance displaced by ethanol in the United States due to potential health effects in drinking water - as the preferred oxygenate based on a lack of knowledge of how to use ethanol and insufficient domestic feedstock production. As a result, Chile is the third largest user of MTBE in the region.
The Council delegation gauged interest in using ethanol as a biofuel in addition to investigating the major regulatory and technical obstacles to adopting a national ethanol program in Chile.
“Our meetings in Chile opened the door for future technical dialogues between the U.S. ethanol industry and Chilean refineries,” Dwyer said. “The use of ethanol could help the Chilean government fulfill fuel quality requirements and comply with Chilean environmental standards – all at a price economically advantageous to Chilean fuel blenders.”
Argentina, in contrast, has both an existing ethanol policy and domestic ethanol industry to supply octane for the 2.4 billion gallons of gasoline consumed annually. The biofuels program, established in 2006, has encouraged the development of a domestic industry that uses both corn and sugarcane as feedstock.
The current E12 blend results in 278 million gallons of ethanol consumption annually, pulled equally from both corn and sugarcane via a government quota.
The sugarcane industry has been unable to fill its portion of the ethanol quota in months preceding the harvesting season when supplies of sugarcane are at their lowest (May-June). Despite goals to increase plant capacity by up to 20 percent, the domestic ethanol industry in Argentina also has geographical constraints that limit sugarcane production in the northern region of the country. These dynamics led to temporary ethanol imports of 1.3 million gallons (5 million liters) in the second quarter of 2018 to compensate for the deficit in local sugarcane-based ethanol production.
In contrast, the country’s corn-based ethanol industry - with five refineries - could increase production but is awaiting the government to signal support before increasing infrastructure investment.
Policy changes could come by 2021, including price liberalization for ethanol. Ethanol producers are in discussions with the government regarding whether to move to the Brazilian model of flex-fuel vehicles that can use pure E100 hydrous or to stay with anhydrous ethanol blended with gasoline at a rate not to exceed a 27 percent blend.
The Council delegation explored how these projected changes could affect the future of the ethanol industry in Argentina. The group also planted the concept of adjusting these policies to allow for trade when domestic supplies of feedstock are short, allowing for consistency in fuel blending and stability that would support the domestic industry’s growth.
“The Council will continue strengthening relationships with the ethanol industry in Argentina and Chile,” Dwyer said. “We saw in these markets the importance of engagement on how to build a robust ethanol program with a role for trade when domestic ethanol supplies are insufficient. We would like them to see the United States as a reliable partner – both in terms of import supply to supplement domestic production and as a source of technical and policy advice as they seek to decarbonize their fuel markets in the years ahead.”
MS Technologies, Bayer Commercialize LibertyLink GT27 Soybeans
MS Technologies, West Point, Iowa, and Bayer on Wednesday announced the U.S. commercial launch of LibertyLink GT27 (Event FG72 x LL55) soybeans. The new LibertyLink GT27 trait stack will benefit soybean growers by being the first to market combining tolerance to Liberty (glufosinate-ammonium), glyphosate and a new HPPD mode of action herbicide for soybeans, pending EPA approval. The trait will be available in elite soybean genetics for maximum yield potential. LibertyLink GT27 soybeans have received all of the required import approvals to advance to commercialization in 2019.
"Today we are excited to announce the full commercialization of LibertyLink GT27 soybeans," says Joseph Merschman, president of MS Technologies. "We are excited because this new trait will provide a powerful solution for soybean growers, combining our best elite soybean genetics with multiple sites of action for outstanding weed control. This system combines maximum yield potential with effective, flexible and neighbor-friendly weed control -- truly the best of both worlds."
MS Technologies and Bayer have collaborated for more than a decade to bring soybean growers new herbicide-tolerant technologies, starting with the LibertyLink system in 2009. LibertyLink GT27 represents the next evolution of this collaboration for the two companies, and the fact that it is the first-ever soybean trait to market to enable over the top use of both Liberty (glufosinate-ammonium) and glyphosate means it will be an extremely strong alternative to current weed management options.
"The commercialization of LibertyLink GT27 soybeans is a great milestone for us in our continuous efforts to offer soybean growers more effective weed management solutions," said Rick Turner, head of seeds for Bayer. "This approval to commercialize keeps us on track for our scheduled 2019 product launch, which is great news for farmers in the U.S."
LibertyLink GT27 will be broadly licensed throughout North America. Currently over 100 seed companies have signed on to offer LibertyLink GT27 soybeans in their brands in 2019. Stakeholder communication will be ongoing supporting this commercialization.
Upon registration from the EPA, the new HPPDi (Group 27) herbicide under development will be the first of its kind available for use in soybeans. At this time, there are no HPPDi herbicides approved for use on soybeans. Upon registration, Bayer will make more information about this new herbicide available.
Two University Studies Show Crop Benefits When Using Instinct® with Liquid Swine Manure
New research from Iowa State University and the University of Minnesota supports previous research documenting improved crop health, environmental advantages and increase in yield when using Instinct® nitrogen stabilizer with liquid swine manure.
“These studies have been instrumental in showing correlations between late-fall liquid manure applications, using Instinct and an increase in crop yield,” said Eric Scherder, Ph.D., customer technical specialist, Corteva Agriscience™, Agriculture Division of DowDuPont. “Data shows that delaying fall application to November and adding Instinct can show a statistically significant increase in corn yield.”
Researchers noted that most liquid manure is applied right after soybean harvest is removed in mid- to late-September and early October and at higher than field removal rates. This is significantly earlier than farmers typically apply their commercial ammonia. Because of this timing and rate, early applied liquid swine manure is especially susceptible to leaching and denitrification, processes in which nitrogen becomes an unusable form to the corn crop.
Both studies specifically looked at moving manure application from early October to early November. In the Iowa State University study, researchers saw an average increase of 27 bushels/acre in 2016 and an average increase of 64 bushels/acre in 2017 just by pushing back timing alone. When looking at adding Instinct nitrogen stabilizer (rate of 150 units/acre equivalent), there was a yield increase of 24 bushels/acre in 2016 and a 12-bushels/acre increase in 2017.
Data from the University of Minnesota also indicated a yield increase when applying Instinct® nitrogen stabilizer with later timing. Delaying manure application from early October to early November increased corn yield 7 bushels/acre (four-year average), and adding Instinct to fall-applied manure increased yield 7-10 bushels/acre (four-year average).
“The research supports previous trials that prove Instinct added to fall-applied swine manure increases corn grain yield 10-12 bushels/acre versus not using Instinct,” said Scherder.
Although these studies focus on application with manure, Instinct, and the counterpart N-Serve® nitrogen stabilizer, works with different fertilizer types to offer the same level of nitrogen protection. Instinct® nitrogen stabilizer with manure, urea and UAN and N-Serve with anhydrous ammonia work below ground to reduce the amount of nitrogen lost through leaching and denitrification. This allows farmers to get the most out of their nitrogen investment. Instinct and N-Serve keep nitrogen in the ammonium form longer, making it more readily available to the crop. They also extend nitrogen availability up to eight weeks so crops get the nitrogen they need during critical growth stages.
As Farmers Grow Drone Use, Privacy Issues Top List of Concerns
The popularity of drones is flourishing on the farm. Three in four U.S. farmers (74%) are currently using or considering adopting the technology to assess, monitor and manage their farm, according to a Munich Reinsurance America, Inc. (MRA) survey of 269 U.S. farmers. Seventy-six percent (76%) of all respondents have concerns related to drone usage: privacy issues (23%) topped the list, followed by cyber security concerns over data captured and transferred (20%), and potential damage or injury from the drone (17%).
"As Federal Aviation Administration regulations open up the skies to the use of commercial drones, we are seeing a growing investment in the technology by farmers focused on precision agriculture or smart farming," said Jason Dunn, strategic products expert, MRA. "Whether a farm has less than 100 or more than 5,000 acres, drones can be the eyes and ears for farmers that want to efficiently and cost effectively monitor and manage crops, livestock and soil conditions. However, farmers may be exposing their business to new risks related to drone usage, and their insurance coverage may not have kept pace with the rapid development and use of this technology."
Of those who currently use the technology, it is nearly split between farmers who contract with an outside company to operate their drones (49%) and farmers who handle drone usage on their own (51%). Eighty-three percent (83%) of respondents use drones on their farms either daily or once a week or more. Drones are used for or considered being used for crop monitoring (73%), soil and field analysis (46%), and health assessment of [crops and livestock] (43%).
"Fortunately, a majority of farmers are talking to their insurance company about their drone usage," said Dunn. Sixty-five percent (65%) of survey respondents using drones have informed their insurance company; 16% plan to do so.
"Traditional commercial insurance policies don't cover or offer very limited liability protection for drones. Farmers should speak with their agents or brokers to insure that their policy protects against privacy claims as well as bodily injury and property damage incurred as a result of drone usage."
Some companies such as MRA offer a Drone Liability Endorsement that can be attached to an existing commercial general liability insurance policy purchased through a participating insurance carrier. The endorsement, which provides bodily injury and property damage liability and/or personal injury liability coverage for drones that are under 55 pounds, is designed for small to medium size businesses and farm and agricultural operations in the U.S.
Are there ‘weak links’ in your fresh cow treatment program?
Gary Neubauer, DVM, senior manager, Dairy Technical Services, Zoetis
As the saying goes, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Is it possible there are “weak links” in your fresh cow treatment protocols that could set your dairy up for vulnerabilities, either for antibiotic residues or lack of efficacy?
You can decrease your risk of residues and cost of treatment by improving your fresh cow program in three key areas: identifying and treating sick cows, implementing treatment protocols, and drug use, storage and handling.
Here are some questions to help identify and strengthen potential weak links in your fresh cow treatment program.
Identifying and treating sick cows
· Who on the dairy is responsible for symptom identification?
· How are employees trained to identify symptoms?
· When was the last time these employees received training?
Implementing treatment protocols
· How often are protocols reviewed and revised with your veterinarian? When was the last time you reviewed treatment protocols with your fresh pen team?
· How are employees trained on treatment protocols? When was the last time employees received training?
· How do you make sure antibiotic doses are administered according to the label for the animal’s actual weight?
Drug use, storage and handling
· When was the last time you reviewed on-farm health records with your veterinarian to determine the success level of each treatment?
· If you asked your employees right now, would they know the label withdrawals for milk and meat?
· How often do you review your drug inventory and compare it with the known disease challenges on your dairy?
A single residue violation can erode consumer confidence. Work with your veterinarian to evaluate the antibiotics and treatment protocols used on your dairy.
Evaluate antibiotics based on:
- Food and Drug Administration approval for on-label treatment of fresh cow diseases, like metritis
- Low residue profile
- Demonstrated efficacy
You also can talk to your Zoetis representative about additional antibiotic stewardship resources.
Welcome to the KTIC Agriculture Information blog!!! Check back here for the latest in ag news and information, from local events to international happenings and government reports that affect your operation. Please email with suggestions! -Chad Moyer, Farm Director, KTIC Radio
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